What is Haut Marais?
If you’re asking this question, you’ve probably heard that the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of Paris are called the Marais. Paris 3rd arrondissement, or the 3rd district of Paris, otherwise known as the Haut Marais (the high Marais), used to be the beating heart of the culinary scene in Paris… then came the 11th, but we’ll get to that later. Because of this, you’ll likely feel overwhelmed with where to go in this district. Our blog on this arrondissement includes a few recs, but the list if non-exhaustive. If you want all of them, be sure to grab our guide to Paris. You’ll get hundreds of incredible options, three full-day itineraries, several walking audio tours, and access for life. We promise - you'll never eat a bad meal in Paris again.
How to Get Around the 3rd Arrondissement of Paris
The only way to really get around the 3rd arrondissement of Paris is by walking. In general in le Marais, the streets are tight, so cars, taxis, and busses, while they do run, have a tough time getting through. Bikes and scooters can be a good way to get around, but honestly, the streets get so busy in warmer weather, that we don’t recommend it, as you’ll probably end up walking anyway! Walking is great, as it allowed you to explore every part of the 3rd.
What to do In Paris’ 3rd Arrondissement
Carnavalet Museum
This is one of our top recommendations for the 3rd arrondissement, and possibly our favorite museum in Paris. We can’t and won’t stop recommending this free, extensive, and truly fun museum. You’ll be wowed from the moment you enter the huge ground floor chamber of large, playful wrought-iron signs that once graced Paris’ streets. At least until they plopped down on one too many Parisian noggins. Our advice? Start at the top, with the French revolution, and work your way down. You can reserve a ticket for a time slot here.
Musée de la Chasse et de Nature
Wonderfully weird and quirky, the Musée de la Chasse et de Nature is Paris’ hunting and nature museum. If you don’t like taxidermy and rifles, this museum isn’t for you. If you love strange, underrated, and very specific history, you’ll love it here. If you are looking for other hidden gems, we’ve got you covered there as well.
There are other underrated museums that fall into the 3rd arrondissement as well. The Musée des Arts et Metiers (really great for sciences and technology lovers!), and the Picasso Museum (to be honest, we don’t love the guy, but hey! Many people do) are a couple of examples.
Where to Eat and Drink
Coffee
Fringe
Fringe is a cozy coffee shop run by photographer-turned-barista Jeff. It’s got a creative vibe, rotating photo exhibits, and one of the best cinnamon buns in town. If you happen to be here in Paris during fashion week, you’ll definitely want to sit here and people watch.
Recto Verso
Tucked near Square du Temple, this little café is a warm and quiet stop for a quality coffee (hot or iced). Their baked goods are tasty too, and they come on the most adorable plates…
Need more coffee recs? We've got you covered.
Food
Le Mary Celeste
Le Mary Celeste is a modern French staple with a killer wine list. We love the oeuf mayo topped with crispy rice; don’t knock it till you try it. Great for snacks, dinner, or long chats with friends over cocktails. We frequent this bar and, after you check it out, you’ll want to as well.
Marché des Enfants Rouges
The Marché des Enfants Rouges is a bustling covered market filled with everything from French classics to burgers and international eats. Wander in and follow your nose, it’s hard to go wrong here.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tasty treats to experience during your visit to Paris, why not take a food tour? Our friends over at Devour have been running one of the best food tours in Paris for years now. You’ll try pastries, chocolate, and savory snacks along the way. For more information and to book, click here.
Drinks
Candelaria
Candelaria is one of Paris’ OG “speakeasies.” Just head through the taco shop and push the unmarked door at the back. Mezcal lovers, this one’s for you. Have some tacos and some tequila, and then be sure to come back for brunch the next day as their chilaquiles are the best thing on the menu.
Cambridge Public House
We love it here. The Cambridge has top-tier cocktails, friendly bilingual staff, and a relaxed neighborhood vibe. We come for the drinks (and award-winning menu), but their snack game is strong too. Jay probably wouldn’t live long without their sausage roll.
Best Places to Hang Out
Square du Temple
This central garden is a wonderful place to sit outside for a picnic or a mid-afternoon nap, weather permitting. Plop down on a classic green bench, or lie on the grass next to the duck pond and watch them float on by.
Jardin Anne Frank
A hidden gem in the Marais, the Jardin Anne-Frank is surrounded on all sides by buildings, with only one little passageway leading in. If you miss the entrance, you’ll never know it’s there, which makes it even better. It’s one of the rare spots in this neighborhood where you can truly relax. Depending on how many kids are playing on the playground when you walk in.
Bonus: There’s a public toilet in this park. We haven’t checked its current state, so proceed with cautious optimism.
Basically… don’t miss out on the 3rd arrondissement. It was hard putting this blog together because of the sheer number of incredible places you’ll want to visit for a drink or a meal. You’ll find wine bars, dives, and some seriously good food here if you grab our guide to Paris. Trust us, you don’t want to miss out. There is never a reason to have a bad meal in Paris.
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